POLICIES TO COMBAT VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN, THROUGH REFLECTIVE GROUPS

Abstract

The analysis of masculinities and their relationship with the occurrence of violence against women is the result of gender studies. In order to tackle this structural problem, Law 11340/2006, known as the Maria da Penha Law, recommends referring male perpetrators of violence against women to unique services, with the reflective group being one of the main forms of intervention. The aim of this dissertation was to analyze the effectiveness of policies to combat violence against women, focusing on the implementation and results of reflective groups in preventing and reducing recidivism in cases of domestic violence. The methodology used was basic strategic research, with descriptive and exploratory objectives, carried out using the hypothetical-deductive method, with a qualitative approach and carried out by means of a bibliographic and documentary survey, not using statistical means, but rather the author's critical and intellectual effort of analysis. The main results were that the men initially felt victimized and wronged by the judicial measure referring them to the group, that they didn't see themselves as perpetrators of violence, and that they had traditional conceptions of hegemonic masculinity. Throughout the process, the welcome, the facilitators' interventions and the men's attachment to the group made it possible to broaden their worldviews, so that issues related to the use of gender violence, masculinities, women's rights and relationships were made more flexible and reframed. The majority reported adopting new attitudes and attitudes towards conflict situations, seeking to avoid the use of violence in their relationships. At the end of their participation, the group was perceived by the majority as a space that brought contributions. In conclusion, the analysis showed that the strategy of reflective groups for men who have committed violence against women is a promising initiative to be used in accountability services for aggressors. It is also important that these services are effectively implemented as part of a public policy, linked to the justice system and integrated into the network of services. The solidification of this policy can be seen as a step forward in the implementation of the Maria da Penha Law and in the fight against violence against women.